President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Saturday departed for Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, to attend the 47th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit, vowing to reinforce regional cooperation during his trip.
In his departure statement at Villamor Air Base in Pasay City, the President said the Philippines fully supports Malaysia’s ASEAN chairmanship under the theme “Inclusivity and Sustainability.”
“At this summit, I will join fellow ASEAN leaders in reaffirming our commitment to ASEAN centrality as we navigate pressing regional and global challenges,” Mr. Marcos said, citing issues such as tensions in the South China Sea, the Myanmar crisis, maritime security threats, climate change, and global economic instability.
He stated that the Philippines will continue to advocate for a rules-based international order and the peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with international law.
The President confirmed that Timor-Leste will be formally welcomed as ASEAN’s newest member during the summit. Malaysia is also expected to turn over the ASEAN chairmanship to the Philippines, marking the start of the country’s term as host for the next round of regional meetings.
Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, Education Secretary Sonny Angara, and Agrarian Reform Secretary Conrado Estrella III were designated as the country’s caretakers during Mr. Marcos’ trip.
“Our participation reaffirms our dedication to deepening regional cooperation and advancing the well-being of every Filipino and the Southeast Asian community,” Marcos said.
